ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions about the rules of the road every week, helping Orlando-area residents become better drivers by being better educated.
A viewer on Tuesday asked Trooper Steve, “Can I make a right on red if there’s a sign saying ‘Photo Enforced?’”
Trooper Steve’s first response was, “Oh, the dreaded ‘Photo Enforced’ sign, the tiny reminder that Big Brother is watching or, rather, snapping away at rule-breaking drivers
Here’s the lowdown: Yes, you can make a right turn on red if there’s only a “photo enforced” sign hanging around, he added.
“That sign just means the traffic camera is live and ready to catch any driver who thinks ‘stop’ is more of a suggestion than a rule,” Trooper Steve said. “The main job of that camera is to keep an eye on the stop bar (you know, the line you’re supposed to stop behind), ensuring you’ve come to a full stop before making your turn.”
Now, here’s where it gets dicey. If there’s a second sign saying, “No Turn On Red,” that’s your cue to wait it out.
“If you ignore that one, the camera will capture your rush to turn, probably sending you a ticket souvenir in the mail,” he said.
So, remember—”Photo Enforced” means “stop first, turn second” is still OK; “No Turn On Red” means just … don’t!
If you have a traffic question for Trooper Steve, submit it here.